My Destiny vs His Purposes

To read the title of this article one obvious point pops out immediately ‘My’ way or ‘His’ way. Yet many miss or never stop to ponder the scriptural truth of HIS purposes verses MY destiny.

During the popularity of the Charismatic years there was an emphasis on “my destiny” or “our destiny. However I have come to see that yesteryear position as flawed with a focus on me, I or our objective. It is a self-serving position and teaching that some Christians continue in to this day. I understand scriptures such as Caleb saying, give me my land” Or where God says, I have plans for you, plans of good” Yet those scriptures do not constitute a doctrine or philosophical truth. A more scriptural position or doctrine would be, God what are ‘YOUR’ purposes for me and seek to enter into that purpose.

During Jesus time of ministry He had a destiny which He often stated, which was Jerusalem where He would face the cross. However in the garden He ask the Father if this cup ‘destiny’ would pass. His final position was, not my will but your will ( purposes) be done. It was never about “His destiny” rather it was Gods will or purposes for Jesus with the end destination being the cross. He continuously spoke of His coming to do the will (purposes) of the Father and not some destined plan.

When we focus and seek His purposes for us we remain dependent on His will and provision. We surrender each day to Him without the drive to fulfill some destiny. When we believe we have a destiny to obtain often times our seeking to reach or achieve that destiny becomes a goal or drive resulting in operating through our own strength as we focus on the goal rather than resting in trust, our future to God.

In todays self-centered lifestyle and teachings of self gratification the focus on ‘MY’ or ‘Our’ destiny is simply self serving verses focusing on ‘HIS’ purposes which is a surrendered lifestyle. Scripture is replete with verses that support an emphasis on ‘HIS’ purposes verses my destiny. I offer we should pray often, Lord what are your purposes for me today. Or as in the Lords prayer, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. I propose this position is one of, not my will but YOURS be done.

Michael

03.23.2014